Head Injury Criterion (HIC) Calculation Using an Optimization Approach

Currently, the three (3) methods for calculating the HIC-value are: 1) direct computation method, 2) utilization of maximization requirement approach developed by Chou and Nyquist, and 3) a partitioning technique. A method which involves the adoption of an optimization approach for HIC calculation is discussed in this study. This optimization technique, which has previously been applied to Boundary Element Method (BEM), employs an improved constrained variable metric method in recursive quadratic programming.

This technique was applied to three theoretical and ten experimental acceleration pulses; the results compare extremely well with exact solution and/or other numerical methods. It is concluded that this optimization scheme provides accurate HIC calculations. A study is planned to investigate the feasibility of extending the application of this optimization technique to an integrated trim/foam/sheet metal pillar system for improved interior head impact protection study.